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The Ultimate American Adventure: Coast to Coast in a Week

From NYC Skyscrapers to Western Natural Wonders

Trip Overview

Experience the incredible diversity of America in seven unforgettable days. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you from the iconic skyline of New York City through the majestic landscapes of the American West. Begin with the energy and culture of Manhattan, then journey to witness some of the world's most spectacular natural wonders including the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. This trip balances urban exploration with outdoor adventure, offering a taste of everything that makes America unique. You'll walk among skyscrapers, stand at canyon rims, explore pristine wilderness, and experience the spirit of the American West. Perfect for those who want to see the best of both coasts and the heartland in between.

Pace
Active
Daily Budget
$250-400 per day
Best Seasons
April-May and September-October for optimal weather across all regions
Ideal For
First-time visitors to the USA, Nature and city lovers, Photography enthusiasts, Adventure seekers, Couples and solo travelers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Manhattan Icons & Skyline Views

New York City, New York
Arrive in the city that never sleeps and dive straight into Manhattan's most iconic landmarks, from art deco skyscrapers to world-famous observation decks.
Morning
Empire State Building
Start your American adventure at this art deco masterpiece and global icon. Take the high-speed elevator to the 86th-floor observation deck for breathtaking 360-degree views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the interactive exhibits about the building's construction and cultural significance. The morning light provides excellent photography conditions.
2-3 hours $45-50
Book skip-the-line tickets online at least 24 hours in advance to save time
Lunch
A classic New York deli in Midtown serving pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup
American deli classics Mid-range
Afternoon
Rockefeller Center
Explore this historic complex in the heart of Manhattan, home to NBC Studios, world-class shopping, and stunning art deco architecture. Visit the Top of the Rock observation deck for unparalleled views of Central Park and the Empire State Building. Stroll through the plaza, admire the famous golden Prometheus statue, and explore the underground concourse filled with shops and eateries. The afternoon light makes this ideal for photography.
2-3 hours $40-45
Sunset tickets for Top of the Rock offer the best views but book several days ahead
Evening
Times Square and Broadway district exploration
Experience the electric energy of Times Square at night, then enjoy dinner at a contemporary American restaurant in the Theater District followed by a Broadway show if booked in advance

Where to Stay Tonight

Midtown Manhattan (Mid-range hotel near Penn Station or Grand Central)

Central location provides easy access to attractions and transportation for tomorrow's journey

Purchase a MetroCard for unlimited subway rides to navigate the city efficiently and affordably
Day 1 Budget: $300-450
2

Lady Liberty & Flight West

New York City to Las Vegas, Nevada
Visit America's most enduring symbol of freedom before catching an afternoon flight to the entertainment capital of the world.
Morning
Statue of Liberty
Take the early ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island to see this powerful symbol of freedom and democracy up close. Walk around the star-shaped fort, visit the museum to learn about the statue's French origins and construction, and gaze up at Lady Liberty's torch. The morning departure ensures smaller crowds and better photo opportunities. If you booked pedestal access, climb up for views of New York Harbor.
3-4 hours including ferry $25-30
Reserve ferry tickets at least one week in advance; pedestal access requires booking months ahead
Lunch
A waterfront eatery in Battery Park or South Street Seaport with harbor views
Seafood and American fare Mid-range
Afternoon
Travel to Las Vegas
Head to JFK or Newark Airport for your afternoon flight to Las Vegas (approximately 5-6 hours flight time). Upon arrival at McCarran International, collect your rental car or take a shuttle to your hotel on the Strip. Check in and take time to rest and refresh after your cross-country journey. Explore your hotel's casino and amenities to get acclimated to Vegas energy.
6-7 hours total travel $200-350 for flight
Book flights at least 2-3 weeks in advance for better rates
Evening
Las Vegas Strip exploration and dinner
Walk the illuminated Strip to experience the spectacle of themed mega-resorts, catch a free fountain show, and enjoy dinner at a buffet or steakhouse before resting up for tomorrow's early departure

Where to Stay Tonight

Las Vegas Strip (Mid-range casino hotel on the main Strip)

Convenient location for evening entertainment and easy morning departure to Grand Canyon

Set your alarm early for tomorrow's Grand Canyon trip; the drive takes 4-5 hours and you'll want to arrive by midday
Day 2 Budget: $400-550
3

The Grandest Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Drive through the Mojave Desert to witness one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders at the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
Morning
Drive to Grand Canyon National Park
Depart Las Vegas early for the scenic 4.5-hour drive through the Mojave Desert and across the Colorado Plateau. Stop at a roadside diner along Route 66 for breakfast. Enter through the South Rim entrance and head directly to Mather Point for your first breathtaking view of the mile-deep canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. The morning light illuminates the layered rock formations beautifully.
5-6 hours including drive $35 vehicle entrance fee plus $30 gas
Download offline maps as cell service is limited in the park
Lunch
A casual cafeteria-style restaurant near the visitor center with canyon views
American comfort food Mid-range
Afternoon
Grand Canyon National Park South Rim exploration
Spend the afternoon hiking along the Rim Trail, stopping at multiple viewpoints including Yavapai Point and Yaki Point. Each vista offers unique perspectives of the canyon's immensity and geological beauty. Visit the visitor center to learn about the canyon's formation and ecology. Consider a short descent on the Bright Angel Trail for a different perspective, but save energy for tomorrow. Watch the sunset paint the canyon walls in brilliant oranges and reds.
4-5 hours Included in entrance fee
Evening
Stargazing and dinner
Enjoy dinner at a lodge restaurant near the rim, then return to a viewpoint for incredible stargazing in this International Dark Sky Park with minimal light pollution

Where to Stay Tonight

Tusayan or Grand Canyon Village (Lodge or motel near the park entrance)

Proximity to the park allows for sunrise viewing and easy morning access before driving to Yosemite

Fill up your gas tank in Tusayan; the next stretch to California has limited services
Day 3 Budget: $250-350
4

Journey to the Sierra Nevada

Grand Canyon to Yosemite National Park, California
Embark on an epic cross-desert drive through Arizona and California to reach the granite cliffs and waterfalls of Yosemite Valley.
Morning
Sunrise at Grand Canyon and departure
Wake before dawn to catch the spectacular sunrise over the Grand Canyon from Mather Point or Desert View. Watch as the first light reveals the canyon's layers in stunning detail. After this unforgettable experience, grab breakfast and begin your journey westward. The drive to Yosemite takes approximately 8-9 hours, so an early start is essential. Pass through Flagstaff and across the Mojave Desert into California.
2 hours at canyon, then begin drive $30 gas
Lunch
A roadside diner or fast-casual restaurant along Interstate 40 in California
American road food Budget
Afternoon
Continue drive to Yosemite National Park
Continue your scenic journey through California's Central Valley and into the Sierra Nevada foothills. The landscape transforms from desert to agricultural lands to forested mountains. Enter Yosemite through the western entrance and drive into the valley as evening approaches. Stop at Tunnel View for your first panoramic vista of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. Check into your accommodation and stretch your legs after the long drive.
6-7 hours driving $35 entrance fee plus $50 gas
Reserve Yosemite accommodation months in advance as it fills quickly
Evening
Valley exploration and dinner
Take a short evening walk along the valley floor, enjoy dinner at a casual restaurant in Yosemite Village, and rest up for a full day of exploration tomorrow

Where to Stay Tonight

Yosemite Valley or El Portal (Lodge, cabin, or motel inside or just outside the park)

Being in the valley allows for easy access to trails and attractions without daily driving

Park your car and use the free valley shuttle system to avoid parking hassles at popular trailheads
Day 4 Budget: $300-400
5

Yosemite's Granite Wonders

Yosemite National Park, California
Spend a full day exploring one of America's most beloved national parks, from thundering waterfalls to ancient giant sequoias.
Morning
Yosemite National Park valley exploration
Start early with a hike to Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America with a dramatic 2,425-foot drop. The trail to the lower falls is an easy walk, while the upper falls trail offers a strenuous but rewarding climb. Afterward, visit the Ansel Adams Gallery and learn about the famous photographer who captured Yosemite's beauty. Walk through meadows with views of Half Dome's sheer granite face and El Capitan, a mecca for rock climbers worldwide.
4-5 hours Included in entrance fee
Lunch
A casual eatery in Yosemite Village or pack a picnic to enjoy in the meadow
Sandwiches and American casual Mid-range
Afternoon
Yosemite National Park Mariposa Grove or Mirror Lake
Drive or take the shuttle to Mariposa Grove to walk among giant sequoias, some over 2,000 years old. The Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree are highlights. Alternatively, hike to Mirror Lake for reflections of Half Dome and Tenaya Canyon. In late afternoon, visit Glacier Point if the road is open for sunset views over the entire valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. The perspective from 3,200 feet above the valley floor is unforgettable.
3-4 hours Included in entrance fee
Check road conditions for Glacier Point; it's closed in winter
Evening
Sunset viewing and dinner
Watch sunset from Valley View or Sentinel Bridge, then enjoy dinner at a lodge restaurant while reflecting on Yosemite's natural majesty

Where to Stay Tonight

Yosemite Valley or El Portal (Same accommodation as previous night)

Staying put allows you to fully experience the park without repacking

Visit popular spots like Tunnel View and Bridalveil Fall early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds
Day 5 Budget: $200-300
6

California Dreaming

Yosemite to San Francisco Bay Area, California
Depart the Sierra Nevada and journey to the San Francisco Bay Area, arriving in time to explore the city's iconic neighborhoods.
Morning
Final Yosemite morning and departure
Take one last early morning walk in Yosemite Valley to soak in the tranquility before most visitors arrive. Capture final photos of the granite monoliths and waterfalls. After breakfast, begin your drive westward through the Sierra foothills and into the Central Valley. The journey to San Francisco takes approximately 4 hours. Descend from the mountains through Gold Rush country with its historic small towns and rolling oak-studded hills.
1 hour in park, then 4-hour drive $40 gas
Lunch
A farm-to-table restaurant in a Central Valley town or Bay Area suburb
California fresh cuisine Mid-range
Afternoon
Arrive in San Francisco and explore
Arrive in San Francisco by early afternoon and check into your hotel. Begin exploring this iconic city by the bay with a walk through Fisherman's Wharf, watching sea lions at Pier 39. Ride a historic cable car up steep hills to Nob Hill or Russian Hill. Stroll through North Beach, the city's Italian neighborhood, or explore the vibrant shops and cafes of Union Square. The city's compact size makes it perfect for walking.
4-5 hours $20-30 for cable car and attractions
Evening
Sunset at Golden Gate Bridge and dinner
Drive or take a bus to the Golden Gate Bridge for sunset views over the Pacific Ocean and Marin Headlands, then enjoy dinner in the Marina District or Embarcadero with waterfront views

Where to Stay Tonight

Union Square or Fisherman's Wharf area (Mid-range hotel in central San Francisco)

Central location provides easy access to attractions and public transportation

Download the Muni app for easy access to San Francisco's extensive public transportation system
Day 6 Budget: $300-450
7

Golden Gate Finale

San Francisco Bay Area, California
Spend your final day exploring San Francisco's diverse neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and scenic waterfront before departure.
Morning
Golden Gate Park and neighborhoods
Explore Golden Gate Park, larger than New York's Central Park, visiting gardens, museums, and meadows. Wander through the nearby Haight-Ashbury district, birthplace of the 1960s counterculture, with its Victorian homes and vintage shops. Visit the Painted Ladies Victorian houses at Alamo Square for classic San Francisco photos. Explore the Mission District's colorful murals and Latin American culture, or walk through Chinatown, the oldest in North America.
3-4 hours $20-40 for museum entries if desired
Lunch
An authentic taqueria in the Mission District or dim sum restaurant in Chinatown
Mexican or Chinese Budget
Afternoon
Alcatraz Island or final city exploration
If you booked in advance, take the ferry to Alcatraz Island to tour the infamous former federal prison and learn about its notorious inmates. The audio tour featuring former guards and prisoners is exceptional. Alternatively, explore more of the city: visit the Ferry Building Marketplace for artisan foods, walk along the Embarcadero, or take a bay cruise. Shop for souvenirs at Pier 39 or Union Square before heading to the airport.
3-4 hours $45 for Alcatraz or $20-30 for other activities
Alcatraz tickets must be booked 2-3 months in advance as they sell out quickly
Evening
Departure preparations
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant with bay views, then head to San Francisco International Airport for your departure flight, carrying memories of an incredible American adventure

Where to Stay Tonight

Not needed (Departure day)

End of itinerary

Allow at least 2 hours to reach SFO from downtown during rush hour; traffic can be unpredictable
Day 7 Budget: $250-400

Practical Information

Getting Around

This itinerary requires flights between New York and Las Vegas, and a rental car from Las Vegas through California. The car is essential for visiting Grand Canyon and Yosemite, as public transportation to these parks is limited. In New York City, use the subway and walk. In San Francisco, utilize Muni buses, cable cars, and walking. Expect to drive approximately 1,200 miles total. Book rental cars in advance for better rates. Consider one-way car rentals if flying out of San Francisco, or return the car and use rideshares to the airport.

Book Ahead

Book flights 2-3 months ahead, Alcatraz tickets 2-3 months ahead, Yosemite accommodation 4-6 months ahead (highly competitive), rental car 1 month ahead, and observation deck tickets 1 week ahead for best availability and prices

Packing Essentials

Layered clothing for varying climates, comfortable walking shoes and hiking boots, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), reusable water bottle, camera with extra batteries, light rain jacket, backpack for day hikes, phone charger and power bank, binoculars for wildlife viewing

Total Budget

$2,000-2,900 for 7 days (excluding international flights to/from USA)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels or budget motels, camp at national parks instead of lodges, prepare your own meals with grocery store supplies, use free shuttle services in parks, skip paid observation decks in favor of free viewpoints, take the overnight bus between cities instead of flying, visit free museums on designated days, and focus on hiking and natural attractions which are mostly free after entrance fees.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at five-star hotels like The Plaza in NYC and Fairmont San Francisco, book first-class flights, stay at the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite Valley, arrange private guided tours at national parks with professional naturalists, enjoy fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, book helicopter tours over the Grand Canyon, arrange private car service between destinations, and upgrade to VIP experiences at all attractions with skip-the-line access.

Family-Friendly

Add more breaks and shorter hiking distances, stay in family suites with kitchenettes, visit the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, take ranger-led junior programs at national parks, allow extra time at Navy Pier-style attractions, choose family-friendly restaurants with kids menus, consider staying an extra day in each location to reduce travel fatigue, pack entertainment for long drives, and build in pool time at hotels for kids to decompress.

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